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Chapter 2 - Identification of Problems/Opportunities and Needs <br />The existing diversion has operational problems. The first problem arises from the <br />fact that the Colorado River channel has been scoured down several feet <br />(estimated to be three to four) since the mid 1960's when the project was <br />constructed. Grade control for the river channel was not included in the project <br />plan. In order to continue to divert water, it has become necessary to move the <br />point of diversion farther and farther upstream. In the spring when flows in the <br />river are high, water can be diverted with little difficulty, but as the season <br />progresses and flows diminish, diversion of the required flows becomes <br />increasingly difficult. Modification of the river channel and bed is frequently <br />required. Berms and dikes, constructed. to maintain diversion capabilities, are <br />routinely washed away by higher flows. <br />A second problem arises from the minimal slope in the inlet canal to the forebay. <br />One of the results of this flat channel is the slow movement of water and the <br />resulting growth of moss and algae. The SWCD expends a considerable effort <br />each summer in maintaining flows to the pumping plant. It has become <br />increasingly difficult to utilize herbicides to control the growth of moss and algae <br />due to more stringent regulations governing their use and mechanical methods of <br />control have had limited success. <br />The SWCD spends about $2,500 a year maintaining the diversion and inlet canal. <br />Redesign of the diversion and inlet canal would avoid problems associated with <br />disturbance to the Colorado River channel and use of herbicides in the inlet <br />channel. <br />12